This is a bar, a restaurant and a hotel, all exuding the style, charm and quality I had become used to as this was number 4 of 6 in our gastro tour of Southern Ireland from Dublin to Cork. Again, family run with passion and professionalism this was a very popular establishment where much of the sea food came from the waters less than two hundred yards away.
We dined in one of the two bars for lunch; both of them open from open from noon until 10pm each day. The restaurant opens from 6.30 each evening with last orders at 9.30pm.
Situated on the long main street of the bustling walled port of Youghal it was easy to find, even more so when we saw first hand the popularity of the bars and restaurant. This was a magnet for people, singles having a quick lunch, couples enjoying a romantic shared dish or families keen to participate in the finest of family meals Ahernes provided the backdrop with a bustling, energetic and yet pleasing environment in which to enjoy a splendid lunch.
The Fitzgibbon family have held ownership of the property since1923, reflected in the volume of regulars known to the staff and management during the course of our visit. Most of all the air was filled with humour, laughs came from around the room as well as from the staff, and the relaxed nature of the customers either anticipating their food or enjoying it reflected this. It was certainly not formal, but it was certainly professional. Gaye Fitzgibbon, a dedicated member of the family, looked after us with such care and consideration I was loathe to leave.
We started our lunch with a drink, a glass of red for Sue and an obligatory pint of Guinness for me, perfectly reflecting the real Irish style, welcome and the opportunity to read and savour an excellent menu. Time stops here, reflected in the menu where it reinforces the period of relaxation,
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Alan McColm is QFOL's Restaurant Critic and Travel reviewer. Alan is working all over the country ... more
